Police officers have been commended for outstanding acts of bravery at an awards ceremony. 

Redbridge officers were praised for their efforts in detaining a man wielding a meat cleaver, preventing a suicide and coming to the rescue of an injured cyclist at the Jack Carter Pavilion in Fencepiece Road, Barkingside. 

The awards, presented by Mayor councillor Ashley Kissin, saw PC Daniel Scripps and two members of the public commended for their courage and compassion during a tragic incident in Wanstead Park on July 6. 

PC Scripps was off-duty with his daughter in the park when Hyacinth Maynard, 40, of Cooks Close, Leytonstone, fell from her bike and severed an artery. 

He administered CPR while a member of the public called for help and his daughter looked after Ms Maynard's nine-year-old son who was riding alongside her before the freak accident occurred. 

Despite his efforts, Ms Maynard tragically died at the Royal London Hospital in Whitechapel.

PC Imran Mahmood, PC Andrew Sharp and PS David Manktelow were awarded for their bravery and professionalism whilst detaining a man armed with a meat cleaver outside Ilford train station in July. 

Despite resisting arrest, he was detained and arrested. 

A police spokeswoman said: "The quick actions of the officers averted a potentially catastrophic situation in a busy public area."

During the same month, PC Allan Hales rescued a woman from setting herself on fire as she attempted to commit suicide.

He responded to a call from the victim who claimed to be suicidal and found her doused in flammable liquid trying to ignite her clothing. 

PC Hales and another officer restrained the woman. 

Chief Superintendent Borough commander Sue Williams praised the public and officers for "going above and beyond what is expected". 

She said: "I am always astonished at the exceptional work undertaken by police officers and members of the public, they all took charge of situations at the risk of their own lives in order to protect and service our community. 

"This reflects the good work taking place right across Redbridge every day. Those receiving a commendation have gone above and beyond what is expected and I feel proud to recognise such excellent, professional and life changing work done by everyone."

Other officers awarded on the night were Sergeant Emma Probets, PC Matt Graham and PCSO Johny Fimber for seizing a large quantity of drugs, £12,500 in cash and £2000 counterfeit notes during a warrant.